Ergocalciferol, also commonly referred to as vitamin D2, is a form of vitamin D that is available as an over-the-counter supplement or in higher doses as a prescription medication to treat vitamin D deficiencies. Although our bodies can produce vitamin D from sunlight exposure in the form of cholecalciferol, ergocalciferol is synthetically produced and formulated into supplements or used to fortify foods.
Ergocalciferol
Ergocalciferol is synthetically produced by the irradiation of sterols found in fungus. Ergocalciferol is commonly used in supplements and to fortify foods, such as milk, with vitamin D. The active form of vitamin D in the human body, calcitriol, is converted in the kidneys from either cholecalciferol, or vitamin D3, or ergocalciferol, or vitamin D2.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Although vitamin D deficiency rarely occurs in healthy individuals, certain conditions can increase that risk. Individuals who have low exposure to direct sunlight, malabsorption syndromes, or kidney disease are more likely to develop a vitamin D deficiency. Since vitamin D is primarily responsible for aiding in the absorption of dietary calcium, a deficiency can result in hypocalcemia. A low calcium level can lead to the development of soft and fragile bones.
Ergocalciferol Supplements
Many patients will take vitamin D supplements to treat a deficiency, although vitamin D2 can be found as the active ingredient in numerous vitamin D products. Treatment of vitamin D deficiency initially may require a high dose of vitamin D to replace depleted vitamin D stores. Since the risk of toxicity does exist, especially with high doses of cholecalciferol, prescription high dose ergocalciferol is available as 50,000 IU capsules.
Ergocalciferol Safety
Patients taking high dose prescription ergocalciferol often require monitoring of vitamin D levels in the blood. Prescription strength ergocalciferol is often used only temporarily until depleted vitamin D stores are corrected. Once a deficiency is corrected, lower doses of vitamin D are used as maintenance therapy. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, excess calcium levels, known as hypercalcemia, are associated with vitamin D toxicity and can lead to kidney failure, cognitive impairment and the formation of kidney stones. Patients should speak to a physician if they have concerns regarding vitamin D deficiency or supplementation.
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